Paper cups are considered to be a more environmentally friendly option as compared to disposable plastic cups. Here are some of the key points that make paper cups environmentally friendly 1. Biodegradability: Most paper cups are made from pulp materials, which are usually derived from renewable wood resources, making them biodegradable under natural conditions. In contrast, plastic cups are usually made from petroleum-based materials that do not break down easily. 2. Water Consumption: Plastic cups require a lot of energy, water and chemicals to manufacture. Paper cups, on the other hand, typically consume less energy and water. 3. Energy Consumption: The process of manufacturing paper cups usually consumes less energy as compared to plastic cups. The energy required to manufacture paper cups is mainly used in the production of pulp and the moulding process of the cups, which is relatively low compared to the mining, processing and manufacturing of plastics. 4. Recyclability: Paper cup recycling and recovery facilities are available in some locations. By properly recycling paper cups, the consumption of resources and the generation of waste can be reduced. To sum up, paper cups are environmentally friendly. However, paper cups have a plastic lamination on the inside in order to increase water resistance. Therefore, when choosing paper cups, you can prioritise the purchase of paper cups with biodegradable films to reduce the impact on the environment.